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Elk River Living Magazine

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VOLUME 02 | ISSUE 08 | NOV 2020 FREE

ELK RIVER LIVING Fabrics, Classes & More Gabby's Sewing & More offers a variety of sewing & quilting classes, including Kimberbell Designer Exclusive machine-embroidery. Get ready for Christmas this year with a beautiful Bargello Christmas Tree Skirt.

Elk River Hero Giving thanks this month for Chief William "Bill" Allen, 1936-2020, for his 60 years of service and mentorship at the Pinch Volunteer Fire Department. His dedication to the Elk River community will not be forgotten.

WV K-9 Search & Rescue Dogs READY TO RESPOND

HHHS Golfers Celebrate The 2020 HHHS Huskie Golf Team won the Cardinal Conference Championship for the second year in a row, and second in the Class AA Region 3 Tournament. They placed ďƒžfth overall in the 2020 WVSSAC AA Golf State Championship.


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NOVEMBER 2020

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

12 Feature Story:

18

Local K-9 Heroes Only a Scent Away

Businesses Offered Up The Treats

"Spending time with your K-9, building trust and relationship, and being ready to help locate a lost loved one is about as rewarding as it gets.” --Cheri Hizer, Team Member

More than 46 local businesses, churches and organizations joined together at Wally's Superior Parts and Service, Elkview, and provided children a safe Trick or Treat on the Elk River.

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Celebrating 150 Years-Joyously and Safely

Let It Snow! Let Us Sew! Let Us Show! Whether you are a beginner or advanced seamstress/quilter, Gabby’s Sewing & More is the place to be!

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08

Our Proud Sponsors

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Reader Submission: Stephanie King

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Recipe: Potato Soup and Bundt Pan Cornbread

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The Elk’s Journal: Tori Williams Nardone

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church had much to celebrate at its 150th anniversary celebration.

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Hello & Welcome Back!

A

s we transition from the October fall landscape (it was absolutely stunning this year) to November, I am always reminded that thankfulness needs to be our focus. Not that we shouldn’t always be thankful, but Thanksgiving puts it front and center in my mind and heart. Our stories this month clearly depict the loving, caring hearts of the Elk River and we are ever so thankful for them. I’ll start with our Elk River Hero, Chief William “Bill” Allen. His dedication, leadership, and integrity are apparent in the foundation of the Pinch Volunteer Fire Department. The community gathered together and gave thanks for his service in an emotional funeral procession from Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, passing by the PVFD and Big Chimney Station/ PVFD, to Elk Hills Memorial Park. Some other highlights this month include local WV K-9 Search and Rescue dogs and their handlers who are thankful for the opportunity to help locate a lost loved one. They train every day to be ready to respond in an emergency. We also are reminded of thankfulness from the generous hearts of over 45 businesses who gathered to safely dispense candy to the children on the Elk River for Trick or Treat. Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church celebrated its150th anniversary celebration with thankful hearts, looking back at growth, ood destruction, and now regrowth. The Trail Kitchen, a new pay-whatyou-can-afford restaurant plus two AirBnBs, joins the ER business community--talk about taking a leap of faith, Scott and Jeannie Marker are amazing. Also, don’t forget the winning HHHS Huskie Golfers who ended an awesome season at the State Championship. This Thanksgiving the world will gather differently with an emphasis on safety and protecting each other. Wherever you are, near or far, know that you are loved. I am thankful, dear friends, for each and every one of you.

Love and prayers,

Cyndi Knight Tawney Founder & Editor 304.546.9243 cyndi@elkriverliving.com

NOVEMBER 2020

Remember, there’s no place like home...on the Elk River.

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Editor In Chief /

Cyndi Tawney

Creative Director /

Josh Tawney

Operations Director /

Ken Tawney

E L K RIVER

Guest Photographers /

Joe Hoover & Ken Tawney

Printer /

The Printing Press Charleston, WV

LIVING

Elk River Living is published monthly by CJT Publishing, LLC, Elkview, West Virginia 25071. All rights are reserved. All contents are copyrighted by CJT Publishing, LLC; reproduction in whole or part without written permission from CJT Publishing, LLC is epxressly forbidden and punishable by law. Elk River Living is not responsible for unsolicited materials. All opinions expressed within Elk River Living belong to the feature’s author and are not necessarily the opinions of the publishers of CJT Publishing, LLC employees. Elk River Living and CJT Publishing, LLC reserve the right to refuse any idea, material or subject matter. Throughout this issue, trademarked names are used. Rather than denoting a trademark symbol in every occurrence of a trademarked name, Elk River Living uses the names in an editorial fashion, with no infringement. All trademarked names are still fully protected, and anyone who uses them without permission will be prosecuted.

On the cover: Local WV K-9 Search and Rescue Dog handler, April Curry, and Dixie of Big Chimney, WV. Photo by Ken Tawney

This month Joe Hoover and April Curry are contributing photographers to Elk River Living Magazine. We are thankful for their talent and love for the Elk River community. Joe is owner of Photography by Joe Hoover, and April Curry, is the owner of Photos by AC.

Joe Hoover

April Curry

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

This magazine depends on our advertising partners! Production, printing and mailing costs are oset by the participation of our valued local businesses. It is how we provide this service at no charge to you. Please take the time to review our Sponsors Page, and if you are in need of a product or service they provide, we ask that you give them a shot at earning your business. And let them know you saw their ad in Elk River Living!

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’s

OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES AFFILIATED FINANCial GROUP 304.935.2230 4508 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston ANR Construction Randy Young, Jr. and Andrew Young 304.741.0377/304.546.6510 April Curry, Xyngular Distributor 304.552.3965 oneforthebooksllc@gmail.com

EDENS BODY WORKS, INC. 102 Neville Rd, Elkview 304.965.5900 ELK FAMILY DENTISTRY 304.965.6661 contact Joey Adkins, DDS Elk Hills Memorial Park 4705 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston 304.954.5721

BECKY’S PET PARLOR 304.951.9162 Rebecca Briles & Kaitlyn Truman

ELK RIVER AUTOMOTIVE 304.965.7501 contact Gary W. Pauley II

BILL’S USED CARS Rt 119 Elk River Road 304.548.4727

ELK RIVER AUTO SUPPLY 304.965.5312 contact Glenn Pauley

BLUE CREEK HEATING & COOLING 304.965.9148 contact Bill Ross or Roy Crist

Elk River Boxing Club 5522 Elk River Rd. Elkview 681.313.6001

BOWEN DENTAL Chas: 304.342.0146 / Clay: 304.587.7495 contact Stacy or Gary Bowen II CANTRELL’S FLORIST 304.548.7700 7484 Elk River Rd, Clendenin CENTRAL WV AGING SERVICES Local Charleston Office 304.965.9081

ELK RIVER CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Scott Collias 4710 Chimney Dr., Ste. D 304.965.2458 Elk Valley Electrician 304.419.5337 www.elkvalleyelectric.com Elk River Floral 9 Main St., Clendenin 304.548.8998

CLENDENIN PHARMACY 304.548.5451 contact Bill or Lindsay Ore Matuszkiewicz Elk Valley Pet Crematorium CREDE TRACTOR 304.965.1666 contact William Crede

Inside Elk Hills Memorial Park 4705 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston 304.965.0148

DEAN JEFFRIES, STATE FARM 304.965.7024 85 Credes Landing, Elkview

ELK VALLEY PHYSICAL THERAPY 304.965.7979 contact Andi Geary, MPT

DR. ANGELA B. ARMSTEAD, DDS 3414 Pennsylvania Ave. 304.343.2151

There’s no place like home!

ELKVIEW HEALTH LLC Vicki Spurlock, Nurse Practitioner 105 Credes Landing, Elkview 304.935.2026 ELITE ROOFING 304.989.4792 www.eliteroofingwv.com E.L. ROBINSON ENGINEERING 5088 Washington St W, Charleston 304.776.7473 elrobinsonengineering.com FROSTBITE DAIRY BAR 1 Cobb Ave., Clendenin 304.548.7413 GABBY’S SEWING & MORE 304.437.3739 gabbyssewingwv.com GINO’S PIZZA & SPAGHETTI HOUSE 304.965-7031 Order online at ginospizza.com GIOVANNI’S - CLENDENIN 304.548.7002 giovannispizzapower.com HAFER FUNERAL HOME & MYER’S CHAPEL 304.965.3331 / 304.965.3341 haferfuneralhome.net HARDINGS FAMILY RESTAURANT 304.344.5044 I-79 Exit 1, Mink Shoals HOLSTEIN INSURANCE 304.965.9941 holsteininsuranceagencyinc.com Jays Remodeling 315 Surface Dr. Charleston 304.205.0914 JILL MULLINS PHOTOGRAPHY jillmullinsphotography.com Jillmullinsphotography@yahoo.com


Please

GIVE OUR SPONSORS THE OPPORTUNITY TO HAVE YOUR BUSINESS.

They care a great deal about you and the

Elk River Community.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADVERTISE WITH ELK RIVER LIVING? PLEASE CONTACT CYNDI@ELKRIVERLIVING.COM OR 304.546.9243 OR VISIT US AT ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

JONES AUTO 304.965.6180 jonesautotruckrepair@gmail.com

MOUNTAINEER AUCTION 304.548.4056 Contact Roger Mullins

SOLID ROCK CONTRACTING 304.444.4288 contact Phil Shaffer

JONES EXCAVATING 304.965.6180 jonesexcavatingofcharleston.com

MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH 304.965.7062 mpbcwv.org

SPECIAL OCCASIONS 304.965.5434 Specialoccasionflowers.com

JULIO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 304.548.4625 12 Main St, Clendenin

ONE FOR THE BOOKS 304.552.3956 oneforthebooksllc.com

SPENCER’S HARDWARE 304.548.6995 8290 Elk River Rd. N, Clendenin

KAMINSKI LAW, PLLC 304.344.0444 www.kamlawwv.com

RODNEY LOFTIS & SON 95 Casdorph Rd., Charleston 304.342.8200 and on Facebook

The Chop Shop, Kaylee Wehrle 3202 Penn. Ave. (Elk Hills) Text or call 304.552.9924

KNIGHT INSURANCE 304.548.4726 knightinsurance@frontier.com

ROGERS HARDWARE 304.965.1077 Contact Bill Rogers

TUDOR’S BISCUIT WORLD 1083 Main Street Elkview Open until 7 PM starting April 1

KNIGHTHORST 877.474.7332 www.knighthorst.com

Sam Schoolcraft Realtor, Property Elite 304.543.1396

MASTER CRAFTERS GIFT & PRIMITIVES SHOPPE 304.965.6222 Facebook: Master Crafters Gift & Primitive Shoppe

Scott’s Service and Auto Repair 311C Elk River Road, S., Clendenin 681.230.2151

WALLY'S SUPERIOR PARTS & SERVICE 5100 Elk River Rd., N., Elkview 304.935.2287

MEADOWBROOK ACRES NURSING CENTER 304.344.4268 www.meadowbrookacres.net MITCH’S 24 HR TOWING 304.965.6646 contact Mitch Young MOLLOHAN AUTO BODY 304.437.2195 2026 Waters Edge Dr., Elkview MOMMA PAYNE’S DINER 304.543.9930 14 Main St, Clendenin

Yak House Rentals 304.941.2229 Yakhouserentals.com

SMITH’S CARPET ONE 304.965.7111 Big Chimney, WV SMITH’S FURNITURE & APPLIANCE 304.965.7600 Elkview, WV

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

MATICS FUNERAL HOME 304.548.6611 maticsfuneralhome.com

SLEEP INN 800.216.0661 sleepinncharlestonwv.com

Xspec POWER 304.746.1139 contact Emily Canterbury

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October Schedule of Virtual Events

r Schedule of Virtual Events Anime Afternoon Online

October Schedule of

EVENTS Thursdays, Oct. 1, 15 & 29, 3:30 p.m.

Join us on Discord would love to feature whatour matters to you, server as we chat and watch differentAnime Afterno nimeWeAfternoon Online so please submit your upcoming events to: anime shows and movies! days, cOct. 1, 15 & 29, 3:30 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 1, 15 yndi@elkriverliving.com ord server as we chat and watch different Join us on our Discord server as Discord Movie Night: Halloween Edition Property Elitea nime shows and movies! anime shows Fridays, Oct. 2, 9, 16 & 23, 8 p.m. Join us on our Discord server as we watch a Halloween Teen Events Teen Events

Movie Night: Halloween Editionthemed movie and chat. Discord Movie Night: H November Schedule of Virtual Events Oct. 2, 9, 1 ays, Oct. 2, 9, 16November & 23, 8Schedule p.m. of Virtual Events Fridays, Discord server as we watch Halloween Join us on our Discord server Minecraft Madness Minecrafta Madness Minecraft Madness Wednesdays, Nov. 4, 11, 18 & 25, 4 p.m. Wednesdays, Nov. 4, 11, 18 & 25, 4 p.m. hemed movie themed Wednesdays, Oct. 7, 14, 21 & Join 28,us4onp.m. our Discord server and Xbox Live as we build movie Join usand on our chat. Discord server and Xbox Live as we build

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ourwe librarybuild Minecraft world. on ourus library Join onMinecraft our world. Discord server and Xbox Liveonas onAnime ourAfternoon libraryOnline Minecraft world. Send AndrewAnime your XboxOnline Minecraft M Minecraft Madness Afternoon Thursdays, Nov. 5 &Wednesdays, 19, 3:30 p.m Thursdays, Nov. 5 & 19, 3:30 p.m sdays, Oct.Join7,us14, 21 & 28, 4 p.m. gamertag to be invited. Oct. 7, 1 Join us on our Discord server as we chat and watch different on our Discord server as we chat and watch different

Teen Events

Teen Events

anime shows andour movies!Discord server a anime shows iscord server and Xbox Liveandasmovies! we build Join us on Teen Virtual D&D Club inecraft world. Send Discord Andrew onDiscord our Movie library NightMinecraft world Movie your Night Xbox October Schedule of Virtual Events October Schedule of Virtual Events Saturday, Oct. 10, Noon Fridays, Nov. 6, 13 & 20, 8 p.m. Fridays, Nov. 6, 13 & 20, 8 p.m. gamertagJoin tousbe invited. gamertag to b Join us on our Discord server as we watch a movie and chat. on our Discord server as we watch a movie and chat.

Join usAfternoon on our Discord server and roll20.net as we play Online Anime Online Anime Afternoon Thursdays, Oct.our 1, 15D&D & 29, 3:30 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 1, 15 & 29,Club 3:30 p.m. Teen Virtual D&D Teen Virtual Club monthly D&D session- now online! Teen Virtual Club Virtual D Join usD&D on our Discord serverNov. as we Join us on our Discord serverNov. as we watch different Saturday, 14, chat NoonandTeen Saturday, 14,chat Noonand watch different New players are always welcome. 311C ELK RIVER RD, S. CLENDENIN, WV 25045 anime shows and movies! anime shows and movies! Join us on our Discord server and roll20.net as we play Join us on our Discord server and roll20.net as we play

Saturday, Oct. 10, Noon Saturday, Oct. our monthly D&D session- now online! our monthly D&D session- now online! Discord Movie Halloween Discord Movie Halloween Edition Discord server and roll20.net asHalloween we Edition play Movie Marathon us on our Discord server NewJoin playersNight: are always welcome. New playersNight: are always welcome. Fridays, Oct. 2, 9, 16 & 23, 8 p.m. Fridays, Oct. 2, 9, 16 & 23, 8 p.m. nthly D&D sessionnow online! our monthly Discord username Andrew at D&D ses Send Discord username Andrew at Join us on ouryour Discord server as wetowatch aFriday, Halloween us Send on ouryour Discord server as weto watch a Halloween Oct. 30, NoonJoinandrew.stanley@kanawhalibrary.org to be invited to andrew.stanley@kanawhalibrary.org to be invited to themed movie and chat. themed movie and chat. players are always welcome. New We will be allTeenday on the KCPL Discord server. players are alw the KCPL Teenhosting Discord server. a Halloween Movie Marathon Sc

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Minecraft Madness Discord starting at noon! Minecraft Madness Wednesdays, Oct. 7, 14, 21 & 28, 4 p.m. Wednesdays, Oct. 7, 14, 21 &Halloween 28, 4 p.m. loween Movie Marathon Movi Join us on our Discord server and Xbox Live as we build Join us on our Discord server and Xbox Live as we build on our Minecraft world. Send Andrew your Xbox username to on our library Minecraft your Xbox Oct. 3 Friday, Oct. 30,library Noon Send your Discord Andrew at world. Send AndrewFriday, gamertag to be invited. gamertag to be invited.

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Property Elite, LLC

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andrew.stanley@kanawhalibrary.org to beWe invited g a Halloween Movie Marathon all day on will betohosting a Halloween Teen Virtual D&Dthe Club KCPL Teen Discord server. Virtual D&D Club Discord startin Discord starting at noon! REALTORTeen / Salesperson Saturday, Oct. 10, Noon Saturday, Oct. 10, Noon ÂŽ

Join us on our Discord server and roll20.net as we play Join us on to ourbuy Discord roll20.net as we play Looking or server sell a and home? our monthly D&D sessionnow online! our monthly D&D sessionnow online! Not sure where to start? r Discord username to Andrew at to change. Changes or cancellations Send Discord user All KCPL events are subject All KCPL events areyour subject to change. Changes or cancellations New players are always welcome. New players are always welcome. All KCPL events are subject to change. Changes orannounced cancellations will be announced on the KCPL website, Facebook page and other will be on the KCPL website, Facebook page and other

y@kanawhalibrary.org to be invited to Movie Marathon KCPL Teen DiscordHalloween server. www.kanawhalibrary.org Friday, Oct. 30, Noon

andrew.stanley@kanawhalib the KCPL Teen Di

social media. Contact your local library for more information. media. Contact your local library for more information. Text,Facebook call, social orpage email anytime! will be announced on the KCPL website, and other

social media. Contact your local library for more information. Halloween Movie Marathon Individuals with disabilities who require accommodation Individuals with disabilities who require accommodation 304-543-1396 to attend a program at any KCPL facility should contact to attend a Noon program at any KCPL facility should contact www.kanawhalibrary.org Friday, Oct. 30, the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. schoolcraftre@gmail.com who require accommodation 304-343-4646 ext. 1242Marathon or 1268; facilities@kanawhalibrary.org 304-343-4646 ext. 1242Marathon or 1268; facilities@kanawhalibrary.org We will be hosting a Halloween Movie all day on Individuals with disabilities We will be hosting a Halloween Movie all day on to attend a program at any KCPLDiscord facilitystarting shouldat contact www.kanawhalibrary.org Discord starting at noon! noon! the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. 304-343-4646 ext. 1242 or 1268; facilities@kanawhalibrary.org

NOVEMBER 2020

Send are yoursubject Discord to Andrew at All KCPL events to username change. Changes or cancellations to be invited to other will be andrew.stanley@kanawhalibrary.org announced on the KCPL website, Facebook page and social media. Contact yourTeen localDiscord library server. for more information. the KCPL

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Individuals with disabilities who require accommodation All KCPL eventsfacility are subject toshould change. Changes or cancellations to attend a program at any KCPL contact will be announced on the KCPL website, Facebook page and other the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. social media. Contact your local library for more information. 304-343-4646 ext. 1242 or 1268; facilities@kanawhalibrary.org Individuals with disabilities who require accommodation www.kanawhalibrary.org

to attend a program at any KCPL facility should contact the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. 304-343-4646 ext. 1242 or 1268; facilities@kanawhalibrary.org

Send your Discord username to Andrew at All KCPL e andrew.stanley@kanawhalibrary.org to be invited to will be ann social me the KCPL Teen Discord server.

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All KCPL events subject to change. Changes or cancellationsto atte Property Elite,areLLC www.kanawhalibrary.org will be announced on the KCPL website, Facebook page and other

J. Craig Broker oflibrary Record the ADA socialAllison, media. Contact your local for more information. 210 Hale St. Charleston, WV 25301 304-343-46

www.kanawhalibrary.org

Individuals with disabilities who require accommodation to attend a program at any KCPL facility should contact the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. 304-343-4646 ext. 1242 or 1268; facilities@kanawhalibrary.org


Events for Children November Schedule of Virtual Events 304-343-4646

All events are hosted online. For more details, see www. kanawhalibrary.org

Mindful Monday

Mondays, Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 3 p.m. Join Children’s librarian Cathy as she walks participants through mindful activities. These can include: meditation, paying attention to the senses, recognizing feelings, and more! Children: 3-11 Years.

Virtual Storytime

Wednesdays, Nov. 4, 11, 18 & 25, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a new story with us on Facebook. Plus suggestions for other great books. Children: Birth-5 Years.

5 Word Story

Thursdays, Nov. 5, 12, 19 & 26, 4 p.m. What’s going on in the picture? Tell us on Facebook in 5 words! Family.

1st Chapter Fridays

Fridays, Nov. 6, 13, 20 & 27, 3 p.m. Sneak peek of a variety of chapter books for children on Facebook. Children: 6-11 Years.

Family STEM

Saturday, Nov. 21, 2 p.m. Join us as we explore a science concept! We will read a couple of books about the topic covered and show science in action. Family.

Family Storytime

Children’s programming sponsored by the BB&T West Virginia Foundation All KCPL events are subject to change. Changes or cancellations will be announced on the KCPL website, Facebook page and other social media. Contact your local library for more information.

www.kanawhalibrary.org

Individuals with disabilities who require accommodation to attend a program at any KCPL facility should contact the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. 304-343-4646 ext. 1242 or 1268; facilities@kanawhalibrary.org

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Saturday, Nov. 28, 2 p.m. In this storytime, a Children’s librarian will read books and guide participants through rhymes and activities about a theme that families will enjoy! Family.

11


Local K-9 Heroes Only a Scent Away

April Curry and Dixie, Kaitlin Bedekovich, Sarah Tedrow and Leo, Cherie Hizer and Cole, and Patty Wygal and Millie.

T

his month ERL would like to recognize a special group of heroes, the WV K-9 Search and Rescue Dogs and their handlers. This awesome team is trained and ready to respond to any search and rescue emergency when they are called out.

Patty Wygal of Big Chimney is a senior member and has been with the team for 14 years. Her fouryear-old Australian Shepherd ,Millie, is an HRD (human remains detection) dog and Patty is National Association of Search and Rescue (NASAR) Tech 2 Certified. Angie McCue has been with the team for 11 years. Her dog, Mercy, is a bloodhound, and is American Mantrailing, Police & Work Dog Association (AMPWDA), Nationwide Suspicious Activity Reporting (NSI), and North American Police Work Dog Association (NAPWDA) certified in training and HRD. Kaitlin Bedekovich of Kanawha City is a field team member and is NASAR Tech 2 certified as well.

NOVEMBER 2020

Four other members of the team are NASAR Tech 3 and their dogs are all air-scent-specific search and rescue dogs. April Curry of Big Chimney is the owner of Dixie, a Labrador Retriever. Sarah Tedrow of South Charleston has Leo, a Doberman. Cherie Hizer of St. Albans has Cole, who is a Pit and Lab mix.

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Cherie saw an ad in the newspaper about new member recruiting for WV K-9 Search and Rescue, Inc. Lorrie Burdette, who passed away this spring, was head trainer at that time. “She told me about her accomplishments with her 2012 Hero Dog Soot, and I knew I was going to love it,” said Cherie. “I met the team at one of their weekly training sessions and hid for the K-9s and was blown away watching


them work a scent cone to a specific person. Even though they could see other people in the area, they ignored them and stayed on task to find the subject. It still gives me chills.” To become a member of the WV K-9 Search and Rescue team, you must achieve one of three levels of certifications with NASAR. NASAR Tech 1 is the highest level and requires the most advanced training and testing. “We can only go out if we are called out by law enforcement,” explained Patty. If there is a search and rescue emergency, a family member can request our services, but it is the decision of law enforcement or the fire department (whomever is in charge) who can call out our K-9 unit.

Angie McCue and Mercy.

Kaitlin explained, “Search and rescue dogs are scent-specific as opposed to disaster dogs who are more rubble focused.” They are also different from police apprehension dogs and can be used in coordination with tracking, trailing, and air scent dogs from other agencies. Apri added, “If dogs are not needed, the team can still respond to a search as part of the field team. The quicker they can arrive on the scene, the chances increase to find the lost person quickly and unharmed.” The team meets at various locations to train, including Kanawha County Regional Airport, area public parks such as Coonskin and Kanawha State Forest and school properties with permission. All team handlers are required to be certified and are working toward different certifications with their dogs. Handlers are required to take numerous classes before they are field certified. New members are voted in once a year. Once a field team member is certified, then they can introduce their dog. Dogs cannot be certified until the handler is certified first.

Sarah Tedrow and Leo.

The WV K-9 Search and Rescue team trains together twice a week. A team member or volunteer hides and leaves behind some form of scent article collected by the handler. Then they start the search process. The dog smells the scent and then proceeds to work the scent and locate the individual. Daily, the handlers also work Leo.


K-9 HEROS, cont. with their dogs on obedience, temperament, and fundamentals. The team coordinates with other teams throughout the State such as Tyler County Office of Emergency Management (OEM), where they are members as well. They have worked with the Tornado Fire Department and have been on hand at the Tour de Coal event in case of an emergency. They are active with scouts and school children, using the Hug-A-Tree program, which emphasizes what to do if they get lost. April said, “We also teach the children what we do while we are looking for them.” All of the children receive a rescue bag which has tools such as a whistle, mirror and trash bag. The children can also pet the dogs and get to know them. “For example, at Ruffner Elementary we even do demonstrations where the kids can hide and the dogs can search and find them. If a child has an understanding of what to do when lost and who is looking for them, it can help reduce their anxiety while they are waiting to be found,” she added.

NOVEMBER 2020

The WV K-9 Search and Rescue, Inc. team was formed in 1988. This year they have been a part of search and rescue in Nicholas County and Kanawha State Forest. Patty said, “Ten to fifteen years ago we did more rescues before cell phones.” She added that they cover all of West Virginia and can also go out of state if they are called out. Patty explained, “We are given a particular sector to work during a rescue. You work with the wind in your dogs’ faces so that they can follow the scent.” She added that a dog has 220-300 million olfactory receptors in his/her nose as opposed to humans, on the other hand, who only have 5 million.”

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Cherie said, “I became involved with WV K-9 Search and Rescue because I have an autistic grandson. I could not imagine what it would be like for him to be lost; I think it’s a labor of love.” She also added, “Spending time with your K-9, building trust and relationship, and spending time training with your teammates to be skilled and ready to help locate a lost loved one is about as rewarding as it gets.”

All of the handlers in the WV K-9 Search and Rescue are volunteers and they pay their own expenses and have fundraisers to help defray their costs. See them on Facebook at WV K-9 Search and Rescue, Inc. for more information.

Patty Wygal Senior Member and Millie.

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304.965.1666 WILLIAM CREDE

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548.7002

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

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READER’S SUBMISSION

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NOVEMBER 2020

his month’s Reader Submission was submitted by Stephanie King. She stated that this sunrise was taken at the intersection of Long and Ambler Ridges. Stephanie is married to Mike King and they have two daughters, Emily and Kayley.

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If you would like to submit a photo, work of art, short story, poem, knitwork - whatever inspires you - please reach out to us at elkriverliving.com or contact cyndi@elkriverliving.com


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The Elk River Rail Trail is now open from Duck to Hartland in Clay County! According to The Elk River Railroad, Inc. President Frank Jorgensen, the six-mile section between the Dundon Trailhead and the Hartland Trailhead is ready for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The Hartland Trailhead is located at the end of the Hartland Bridge crossing Elk River on Route 16 about 5 miles south of Clay near Clay County High School. The trailhead also features an existing kayak launch ramp. With this addition, the trail is complete, except for some final detail work, from Duck to Ivydale (10 miles) to Dundon (another 12 miles) to Hartland (another 6 miles) for 28 total miles of rail trails.

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ELK RIVER TRAILS GROW!

Elk River Trail Foundation, Inc. also announced that a one-half acre tract of land was donated to the Foundation by Tate Creek Consortium, LLC, Robert Sowa, Managing Member. The land is ideally located between the Rail Trail and the Elk RIver about a mile downriver from Ivydale at Little Italy. The property has excellent access from the rail trail to the river trail. The Foundation will erect a plaque at the site stating “This land donated by Tate Creek Consortium, LLC in memory of Harry Sowa, avid bicyclist.�

Foundation President Ken Tawney expressed his deepest appreciation to the Sowa family and to Queen Shoals Full Gospel Church for their generous donations. Plans are now being made to maximize use of the properties for both river and rail trail access and other recreational activities.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Elk RIver Trail Foundation, Inc. also received a very generous gift from the Queen Shoals Full Gospel Church. The basement was damaged in The 2016 Flood and Pastor Scott Means and Trustees David Sizemore and Robert Taylor decided that the Church would donate the property to ERTF. The land is ideally located between Queen Shoals Road, Elk River, and the Elk River Rail Trail.

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Businesses Had the Treats

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andy Young and Jon Matuszkiewicz of Affiliated Finance Group, LLC at Big Chimney were at it again! This time they volunteered their time along with local businesses to make sure the children on the Elk River all had a great Halloween! On October 30, the Friday evening before Halloween, more than 46 candy dispensing stations,sponsored by local businesses, churches, and other organizations, gathered in the parking lot of Wally’s Superior Parts and Service Center at Elkview. Sammy Jo Monk and Wally Rollins were happy to host the event so that children had a safe place to trick or treat amid the COVID pandemic. Also, courtesy of ANR Construction, Batman made an appearance for the kids.

NOVEMBER 2020

Randy Young, President of Affiliated Finance Group explained, “With the COVID restrictions on Halloween events this year, we thought it would be awesome to get with local businesses and offer a safe alternative for the children.” The local businesses and organizations came together and respected CDC social distancing guidelines and filled the parking lot to treat the kids. Vehicles were decorated and many people were in costume while parents did a drive-by at each of the candy dispensing stations. Children extended their bags out the window and received their Halloween goodies!

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Local businesses who participated included: Affiliated Financial Group, Inc., Wally’s Superior Parts and Service, ANR Construction, Clendenin Pharmacy, Smith’s Food Fair, Hafer’s Funeral Home, Ford and Sweeney, Peggy White-Old Colony Realty (R. Joseph Miller, Broker), Joe Holland, Before and After Beauty--Elkview, Elk River Living Magazine, Xspec Power-Elkview,Kerragan Young, KY Scentsy-Elkview, Elite Roofing, Cole’s Wildlife Artistry, Special Occasions, Tina White-Garlow Insurance, 97.5 WQBE-Charleston, Miller’s Trucking & Excavating LLC, Jones Auto & Truck Repair, Elk Valley Electric, South Ridge Church-Young Adult Life Group, Momma Payne’s Diner, Giovanni’s Pizza--Clendenin, Roger Harper @ 84 Lumber-Elkview, Elk Valley Physical Therapy, Cantrell’s Florist, AT&T--Elkview,

Jon Matuszkiewicz, L to R Wally Rollins, and Randy Young, Jr.

Blue Creek Auto, Elk River Outdoors (Jonathan Harding), Plumbers and Pipefitter Local 625, Clendenin United Methodist Church, Angela Mitchell @ Service Electric--Dunbar, Electric 102.7, Team Mayfield, JD Stowers Body Shop, BATMAN, Pioneer WV Federal Credit Union, Advanced Auto Parts, Elkview, Bully's Trap Barber Shop, Julio's Mexican Restaurant, Clendenin, Jiffy J's Portable Restrooms, A Moment in Time Photography (Teressa Haddox), Frost Bite Dairy Bar, RSG Landscaping, Dean Jeffries State Farm Insurance, and K & N Contracting. ERL would like to give a big shout out to everyone who helped make this event a success for our children.


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ELKRIVERLIVING.COM


C e le br at i ng 1 5 0 Y e ar s – J oyous ly a n d Safe ly

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here were around 300 attendees at the 150th Anniversary Celebration of Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, including old friends and acquaintances, as well as new. It was a great time of friendship and fellowship which Mount Pleasant Baptist Church is known for in our community.

The church began on New Hope Road back in 1870. Pastor Lee Swor has been the pastor at Mount Pleasant since 1986. He has seen the church through 34 years of growth, flood destruction, and regrowth.

NOVEMBER 2020

Before the flood in November/December 2015, Mount Pleasant was working toward putting up a new school building. They had spent $400,000 to put up the shell of the building. At that time the church had zero debt and Pastor Swor said they spent a lot of hours in prayer trying to know if they should borrow funds to finish the school. His son, David Swor, said, “Dad, we’ve heard about all of the other generations and what they accomplished in the 60’s and 70’s, and our generation would like to see God do something special for us.”

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Pastor Swor said the Church took a step of faith and borrowed $700,000 and they were in the process of completing the school when the floodwaters of 2016 filled the church with over 4 feet of water and 8 feet in the school gym. They lost everything and they did not have insurance on the school, as it was just under construction at that time. Mount Pleasant received over $750,000 from individuals and churches nationwide to help with the rebuilding the church and school. The Church then borrowed $250,000 which brought their total debt at approximately $1 million. They ran out of money again and borrowed another $300,000 which still


left them short. Pastor Swor said they decided to just make it somehow and not add to their current $1.5 million debt. Things did come together, and the church and school were able to open. They were then able to raise $100,000 that next year to pay toward one of the loans. They were hopeful that if they could do this every year for 5 years, then at least one of the loans would be paid off and they could then concentrate on the remaining loan. It was a prayerful time for the Church. Pastor Swor and the congregation didn’t know it, but there was a miracle on the horizon. He will always remember the telephone from Sam Hensley, an Elk Valley Christian School 1978 graduate and successful businessman. Sam called and said God had laid it on his heart to give Mount Pleasant Church a million dollars. Sam and his wife, Carol, increased the donation to pay off the church’s $1.1 million debt plus donated another half million dollars on Mother’s Day in 2019 to the school. Pastor Swor and the members of the church refer to Sam’s donation as a wonderful miracle.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

As you can see, this year’s 150th anniversary celebration had so much to celebrate. While adhering to CDC social distancing guidelines, the church held a picnic at Pleasant Island on Saturday, October 3 followed by a dinner after church on Sunday, October 4 and pictures and a skit of past members. Former church member, Pastor Rick Pierre, delivered Sunday night’s service.

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K-9 HEROS, cont.

NOVEMBER 2020

The COVID pandemic this past spring had church doors closed in the State. Mount Pleasant has been back open since Mother’s Day with morning and evening services and they also deliver the services virtually. For more information, contact the church at 304.965.7062. They are located at 58 Mt. Pleasant Drive, Elkview.

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M MATICS Funeral Home Charles L. “Sonny” Matics, Owner Anthony R. “Tony” Matics, Licensed Dir. 8539 ELK RIVER ROAD NORTH CLENDENIN, WV 25045 maticsfuneralhome@suddenlink.net 304.548.6611

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THE

ELK’s COOKBOOK Potato Soup and Cornbread! Umm Umm! Warm up this month with a delicious bowl of Potato Soup and Bundt Pan Cornbread! Gabi Strickland Walker shares her mother’s recipe for potato soup and a cornbread recipe that will have you asking for a second helping!

MOM'S POTATO SOUP

Here’s What You’ll Need 5-8 Potatoes - peeled and chopped (Yukon Gold is what I use) 1 onion - diced 3 stalks of celery - diced 3 T butter White Sauce: 2 T butter 2 T flour 2 C milk

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DIRECTIONS In the bottom of a large pot, saute onion in butter until it begins to soften; add celery and stir. Add potatoes and enough water to cover about 2 inches above the vegetables. Cover and cook until potatoes are soft. Turn up heat and bring soup to a boil. Make white sauce by melting butter over low heat; add flour and stir to combine. Do not brown. Add milk, stirring constantly until it thickens. Add white sauce while stirring constantly. Add salt and pepper to taste. (I like to add 1 t of popcorn salt in addition to my kosher salt-potatoes need a generous amount of salt/pepper). Garnish with shredded cheddar cheese and bacon bits if desired.


bunDt pan cornbread Here’s What You’ll Need 2 C self-rising cornmeal mix (Hudson Cream) 1 C self-rising flour 2 ¾ C buttermilk ½ C real butter (1 stick)

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Oven 400 degrees Spray bundt pan well, especially the center, with cooking spray. Put 1 stick of butter in the bundt pan and melt in the oven while your oven heats up and you mix the cornbread. Put cornmeal, flour, and buttermilk in a large bowl and mix well. When butter has melted in the bundt pan, remove the pan from the oven and swish butter around inside the pan. Pour cornbread mixture over the butter and smooth the top with a spoon. The butter will rise up around the mixture and have some on top. Put cornmeal, flour, and buttermilk in a large bowl and mix well.

Elk Valley Electric Craig White, Owner Phone: 304-419-5337 Website: www.elkvalleyelectric.com Email: Craig@elkvalleyelectric.com

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

01

DIRECTIONS

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NOVEMBER 2020

AUTO | HOME | BUSINESS | LIFE 26

GARY HOLSTEIN, AGENT | MGR AGENT@HOLSTEININSURANCEAGENCYINC.COM

WWW.HOLSTEININSURANCEAGENCYINC.COM

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

304.965.9941 4920 ELK RIVER RD S. ELKVIEW

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ELKRIVERLIVING.COM


Let it Snow, Let Us Sew, Let Us Show!

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ne of our favorite places on the Elk River is Gabby’s Sewing and More at the Mink Shoals Exit off of I-79. Whether you are just beginning to sew or if you are an advanced quilter, Gabby’s is your place!

NOVEMBER 2020

Last month Gabby’s had their Kimberbell “Too Cute to Spook Embroidery Event” on October 2 and 3. A delicious, ghoully, Halloween lunch was included for the class featuring menu items such as chili with dead man toes, rat cream-cheese oreo spread, skeleton smorgasbord and eyeball punch. Patty Brannon and Elonda Morgan hosted the event and all kits were provided by Kimberbell. The class completed a spooky cute spider tea towel, a pumpkin candle mat, M.E. by Number: Candy Corn Pierced Block, Double, Double Toil and No Trouble Zipper Pouch, Witch Hat Felt Cozy and a Monster Munch Gift Bag.

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Kimberbell Designs specializes in quilt and home decor patterns for sewing, quilt, and machineembroidery craft projects. Watch Gabby’s calendar for all upcoming Kimberbell classes and reserve your seat. A one-day Kimberbell Dealer Exclusive embroidery event is offered each month, and rumor has it, November may be a Gingerbread Candle Mat. Gabby’s offers a variety of sewing and quilting classes. They offer both day and evening classes to accommodate your schedule. Getting ready for Christmas has never been more exciting than with a beautiful Bargello Christmas Tree Skirt. JoAnn Gwinn is the instructor for Bargello quilts and more. Freddi Christy will offer her very popular Stuffed Teddy Bear class and Three-Yard Quilt Class in November. There have been six of these classes


offered previously and all have been full. Freddie also offers Quilting 101, 102 and a variety of quilting classes. Also extremely popular are the machineembroidery classes offered once a month by MariBeth Shreve. Recently, she has taught several quilting classes, including the Zen quilt, the Window Panes quilt, and a quilted sewing machine cover which featured mesh pockets and zippered compartments.

Gabby’s Sewing & More. Also, coming in January will be more exciting classes including a pillow of the month. Don’t let the winter blues get you down--Gabby’s is a perfect place to cozy up with your machine and sew!

Rebecca Chapman and Darwin Alexander are the owners of Gabby’s Sewing & More. This November they will celebrate their fifth year in business (one year previously in Dunbar and four here at Mink Shoals). Watch for their anniversary sale event with savings on fabrics and all of your sewing needs. Stop by Gabby’s and pick up a monthly calendar or you can also view it on their Facebook page,

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

If you are a beginning seamstress, Marsha Gessell hosts Sewing 101 classes every other Wednesday where you can sew and take home your project that day! Start with a pillowcase, pajama bottoms, apron or one of the other beginner pieces. Learn sewing basics and have fun with the many projects in this beginning class.

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The 2020 HHHS Huskie Golf Team has had an amazing season. First, they won the Cardinal Conference Championship for the second year in a row. Next, they continued on to finish second in the Class AA Region 3 Tournament at the end of September. Last, but certainly not least, they placed fifth overall in the 2020 WVSSAC AA Golf State Championship.

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The HHHS Huskies Golf Team Qualified for the States!

ELK

The State Tournament was held at Oglebay Resort in Wheeling, WV on October 6 and 7. The Elk River community came together and lined the road to the I-79 interstate ramp and gave them a great send off to the States. Bryson Beaver (Junior) finished 12th, Max Bowen (Sophomore) finished T-16th, Sawyer Osbourn (Sophomore) finished 21st, and Sam Phillips (Sophomore) finished T-22nd.

NOVEMBER 2020

All four of these golfers also made All Region. Under the direction of Coach Eddie Gray, this outstanding team of golfers was the only team to have all four of their team members receive All Region honors. Coach Gray said, “The future looks bright for this incredibly talented group of golfers. They defeated every team in Kanawha County and I am so proud of them all placing in the top 22 at the State Championship!�

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Beck y’s Pet Parlor

Celebrating 10 Years!

Rebecca L. Briles & Kaitlyn M. Truman PROFESSIONAL DOG GROOMERS

304 951 9162

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

166 North Pinch Road Elkview, WV 25071

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NOVEMBER 2020

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HOME

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ELK RIVER HEROES In each edition of Elk River Living we feature and celebrate a member from our community. If you would like to submit someone you know, please contact Cyndi Tawney at cyndi@elkriverliving.com.

Chief William “Bill” Allen

1936-2020

Chief Allen passed away on August 21, 2020 after a short illness. He was honored with a funeral procession led by PVFD from Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, through Pinch passing his residence and the Pinch Volunteer Fire Department Main Station, down Indian Creek and then passing the Pinch Volunteer Fire Department Big Chimney Station, to his final resting place at Elk Hills Memorial Cemetery. His graveside burial included full fireman and military graveside rites. Bill proudly served in the U. S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He was a member of the American Legion Post 61. He was one of the 12 Charter Members who founded PVFD in 1959 and he served not only as a member, but as a role model and mentor to Elk River firefighters. Chief John Hafer said, “It was his dedication, commitment, and integrity that helped mold our Department into what it is today.” Chief Allen was employed by C & P Telephone, AT&T, and the State of WV. He was a member of Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church at Pinch where he also was a choir member, Sunday School Superintendent, and Trustee for many years. Bill loved camping, boating, woodworking, and most of all, his family and his “PVFD family”.

NOVEMBER 2020

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ovember is a time for thankfulness, and this month ERL, friends, and family proudly salute Retired Chief William “Bill” Allen, founder of the Pinch Volunteer Fire Department (PVFD), for his 60 years of service and dedication to the Elk River communities. He was the third Chief at PVFD and served in that role from 1975-2000. He remained a Life member of the Department.

Bill was married to Jeanette Dawson Allen for 64 years. Their daughters are Lisa Allen and Susan (Greg) Carnes. Grandsons are Justin (Whitney) Allen, Drew (Lauren) Carnes, and Tony Carnes. Great grandchildren are Gradyn and Kinsley Allen, Emma, and Henry Carnes, along with special nephew Doug (Kim) Hughes.


NOVEMBER 2020

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ROAD SERVICE KEY LOCK-OUT SERVICING WEST VIRGINIA

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MITCH’S 24 HR TOWING 100 FRAME ROAD ELKVIEW, WV 25071

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

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THE

ELK REFLECTS

Are You Ready for Some Football!

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ooking back at Clendenin High School, 1962-63, Elkview High School 1962-63 and Herbert Hoover High School 1963-64.

NOVEMBER 2020

Also, here is a sneak peak at the new 2020 HHHS football team away uniforms! Honorary numbers included: 63 recognizes the first year HHHS was established; 31 recognizes the jersey worn by our only Kennedy Award Winner, Robin Lyons, and our only NFL player, Billy Joe Mantooth, and 77 recognizes the only undefeated season in HHHS school history.

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ERL would also like to feature any of your Elk River memories as well. Go to elkriverliving.com and select Reader’s Submission, Elk’s Journal, to submit your story.


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Adventure Awaits at Flat Hollow Farm By Guest Author, Liz Wilkes, Owner of Flat Hollow Farm If you are looking for an ideal hub for adventure, check out Flat Hollow Farm, LLC (FHF), located at 7611 Quick Road, Clendenin. They are centrally located amongst an endless area of trail systems, plus they offer safe parking for ATV riders. Additionally, they sell seasonal, local produce, including paw paws, black walnuts and sassafrass.

FHF is the home of Quick Riders Mountain Bike Park, an advanced downhill, singletrack mountain bike trail system. Liz Wilkes, owner of FHF, said “You can fly down the mountains on your bike straight into Blue Creek. Shuttle service is available, also!” Camp sites are available and can be set up before heading out to ride for the day. FHF is open 24/7, 365 days a year with no closing time. They offer primitive camping and electric hookup for campers, including 50 amp. The driveway entrance to the park is a mountain road and they recommend allwheel-drive vehicles only and a maximum of 30 foot trailers. They have 2 rental John boats and 1 paddleboard available for $25 for the entire day which includes transportation to and from Blue Creek. FHF is a venue for adventurers. Coming soon they are offering All-Inclusive Camping Packages. Liz explained, “This means you can camp without any of the hassle. Packages will include everything down to power banks to charge your phones, premium camping essentials all set up, luxury sleeping bags, gourmet food baskets from wine and cheese to dinner baskets with marinated choice of meats for grilling (all the camping cookware provided).”

NOVEMBER 2020

Flat Hollow Farm says, Yes.--We can customize your camping experience. Liz said, “We like the idea of the All-Inclusive Camping to be a common destination for ‘surprise dates’. Surprise your loved one with a night in nature, completely secluded from society, surrounded by wilderness. Wine and dine him or her without any hassle at all!”

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This park is exclusive and private, and all arrivals and plans are booked in advance through Facebook or by phone at 304.965.8008 or 304.545.4267.


Hafer

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Directions: 20miles North of Charleston WV on I-79 North

I-79 CLENDENIN Exit #19 ONTO RT. 119 SOUTH 1.7 MILES, MOUNTAINEER AUCTION GALLERY LOCATED ON LEFT.

50 Spencer Road – Clendenin, WV 25045

(304) 548-4056

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

www.mountaineerauctions.com

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ELK’s journal The Balancing Effect by Tori Nardone

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lk River native, Tori Williams Nardone, knew she wanted to help women find the balance and strength they needed to become the best versions of themselves. She officially embarked on her journey one year ago when she released her True North Planner/Journal to help women set their goals and take care of themselves during the year, and she is currently taking orders for Volume 2 for 2021. Tori has become a certified health coach, launched her first digital guide, wrote a series of blog posts on her site,The Balancing Effect, and released a successful first season of podcasts. This past March she also hosted her first event, A Toast to Women, in partnership with The Park Cafe (Charleston, SC) in honor of International Women’s Day. Tori and her husband, Albert, reside in Mt. Pleasant, SC.

“In this week’s episode we're going to talk about how to find some joy amidst the crap show that is the world right now, things I do regularly that make me a happier person during these crazy times. But first, let’s check in with our mental health. On a scale of 1-10, my mental health is at a 4 this week because guys, I’m just really bummed and sad but I am also feeling really grateful for my life and the people in it. Life is too short and we should cherish it so much each and every day, little things, big wins, highs, lows, all of it.

Small Joys During Pandemic/Quarantine 1. hot lunches 2. working in loungewear and in the sunshine 3. no makeup - skin looks fab 4. leisurely sipping coffee in mornings instead of rushing 5. lunchtime workouts 6. more time with husband and animals (or roommates, alone) 7. getting Nova, our new dog - I never would have pulled the trigger if we weren’t in the current situation

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Literature for the People

ERL invites you to listen to her podcasts that focus on a variety of topics. My recent favorite is Episode 13, Finding Joy, Coping & Navigating Life in A Pandemic. Listen at the link https://bit.ly/2EpczTv or anywhere you find podcasts. Here is an excerpt from Episode 13:

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JOURNAL, cont. 9. organizing, cleaning, and finally tackling projects we never had the time to do because they’re in your face 24/7 lol 10. saving money - no need to buy clothes, makeup, etc. Where are you going?! Not spending money on outings either 11. evaluating life more deeply - what is really important to us in life and how do we want to spend it? I switched jobs, started a podcast, and got a dog during this time

Things I Do On The Regular That Make Me Feel Good, Especially Now 1. drink lots of water (hydroflask) 2. move my body (run, yoga, barre) 3. meditate 4. 8 hours of sleep 5. regular skincare routine 6. cuddle animals 7. hug husband 8. eat foods that fuel me and make me feel good

NOVEMBER 2020

I encourage you to follow The Balancing Effect on Instagram @thebalancingeffect and to visit www.thebalancing-effect.com to stay updated. Remember, trust the process, friends!�

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A Double Holiday Open House

ELK

AR Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons are just around the corner and Special Occasions at Elkview is hosting its Annual Holiday Open House Week starting on Monday, November 9 through Saturday, November 14. Bursting with gorgeous holiday wreaths and home decor, it is the perfect time to pick up your favorites before they are gone. Even better are the discounts that you will find throughout the store. If you still need to pick up some autumn decorations for your Thanksgiving holiday, Special Occasions has a great selection of fall arrangements and wreaths. Also, consider sending a fresh-cut flower arrangement to loved ones who cannot be with you during the holidays. For Christmas you will find an array of wreaths, arrangements, mantle displays, and tree decorations. Also, browse their Mountaineer display of WVU products, the Gift Basket Room, quilts, and inspirational bracelets, all great gifts for family and friends.

Remember, when you shop at Special Occasions, you are more than just a customer, you are Elk River family. Special Occasions is located at 5106 Elk River Road, Elkview. Stop by or give them a call at 304.965.5434. Photos by Logan Taylor Photography

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Mark your calendar and make plans to stop by the Holiday Open House Week at Special Occasions. There will be drawings for a host of door prizes plus grab a plate of delicious holiday food while you are there. Also, if you want to post a prayer request on their Prayer Wall, you are more than welcome (or call and they will post it for you).

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Pumpkin Spice with a Dash of Spooky

Clendenin local artisan, Jill (Moles) Mullins, has six pictures that will be on display at the Beckley Art Center’s (BAC) Dan and Cynthia Bickey Art Gallery in Beckley. This is a Special BAC Members Exhibition entitled Creature/Comfort. Three of her selected photographs are Halloween themed and three are comfort/fall themed. The exhibit will be on display from October 23 to November 21, 2020. Jill said, “The exhibition features the fall season which is a magical time where two moods emerge and coexist. I love Halloween so I was so excited when this exhibit came about.” She explained the theme of the exhibit is a combination of cool nights, gorgeous leaves, comfy blankets, pumpkin spice...and of course, capes, fangs, and monster movie playlists! Jill invites everyone to stop by the exhibit at 600 Johnstown Road in Beckley and check out the great artwork on display. Also, it is a great time to get a headstart on your holiday shopping. Jill and local artisans will have their amazing artwork on sale. Several of Jill’s photos are on metal, 16 x 24. She said, “It’s a perfect gift for the loved ones in your life.” Jill also has photographs on display and for sale at Tamarack The Best of WV in Beckley. For more information on Jill’s work, go to Jill Moles Mullins on Facebook or visit her website at www.jillmullinsphotography.com.


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NOVEMBER 2020

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